4 Steps for Moving and Storing an Art Collection

The moving process of packing, loading, and unpacking your home can become tiring and stressful. When it comes to transporting valuable and highly delicate artwork, you’ll need to take extra time and care when prepping your belongings. Whether you’re an avid art collector or an owner with a few pieces of art, here are four steps for moving and storing your art without compromising the quality and integrity of your coveted collection.

Whether your art pieces are expensive or priceless, take care ensure each piece is adequately wrapped and protected for your move.

1. Ensure Proper Packaging

Before you start the process of moving your collection, you’ll need to prepare it for transport and storage. When packing your art, avoid any form of wrapping that restricts the natural flow of air, as this can increase humidity and ultimately lead to water damage. Instead, use breathable sheets or tissue, which are loose and allow for air circulation. Cardboard coverings and padded cushioning are also safe to use, as they can reduce the amount of space between the piece and its surroundings and can also protect your artwork from bugs, dust, and scratches. And since each piece of artwork has a different size, shape, and material, make sure to package every item accordingly. From miniature sculptures to ceramics to paintings to furniture, it’s wise to purchase the right kind of packaging materials before loading your items on a truck. If you are uncertain of proper packing techniques, you may want to enlist the help of a professional moving company to do the crating for you.

2. Transport Carefully

If you decide to move your items on your own, make sure to use large wooden boxes and frames to carry each art piece and to protect the edges of pieces with foam pipe insulators. It’s also wise to delay moving on a stormy or snowy day where weather conditions can drastically affect the way that you drive. And since sudden stops can jerk around the more delicate artwork items, try and take the smoothest route possible to your new location.

Make sure to find a dry, climate-controlled storage facility with ample security to ensure the safety of your artwork.

3. Regulate the Climate

Since paint, wood, and other materials can be warped, cracked, or damaged in the wrong climate, make sure that the surrounding temperature of your new storage space can be regulated. If you’re working with a storage facility, ask about the availability of climate control options to maintain an ideal level of heat and humidity. It’s also a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier if you’re moving to a warmer climate as well.

4. Place in Art Storage

The final step for moving your art collection is to make sure that it’s properly stored. Imperial Self Storage – Art indicates that most items can be easily placed on shelving units. If there aren’t any available in your storage unit, you can use wooden slats and pallets to keep your collection above the ground. Be sure to arrange your pieces in a vertical manner and descending order. And never, under any circumstances, stack pieces of artwork on top of each other, as fragile pieces can puncture or even crack under the slightest amount of pressure.